Emma Mendelsohn believes the west is one of Melbourne’s great places to live, and that it deserves recognition as a marquee destination in its own right. She is a local resident, business owner and employer of local young people, and she and her family have built their life here. Their stake in the west’s future is personal.
Building a local business has taught her what it takes to create jobs, train young people and keep a small enterprise thriving in a changing economy. Many of the people she employs grew up in the west, and giving them a start in a skilled trade is something she takes great pride in.
Alongside her business, Emma has spent years in public service through advocacy. She has served as a National Board Director of a professional Association, and she knows what it takes to lobby Government.
In these roles she has represented her industry to state and federal government on regulation, training standards and consumer protection. She has prepared formal submissions, met with departments, and built coalitions to deliver practical outcomes. She also contributes to the Victorian Skills Authority’s Industry Advisory Group, where she advocates for stronger training pathways that lead school leavers into skilled careers.
Emma’s commitment to community goes well beyond her professional life. She began volunteering many years ago in the HIV/AIDS council, and has since given her time and skills to a range of community and professional associations. She is a strong supporter of grassroots initiatives that bring neighbours together and enrich local life.
At the heart of Emma’s outlook is a belief in democracy. Government should reflect the wishes of the community it is elected to represent, and integrity must be central to how decisions are made.
Residents have a right to expect transparency, honest dealing and representatives who genuinely listen.
Like many locals, Emma has watched the west’s suburbs grow quickly while services, open space and infrastructure have struggled to keep pace. Nowhere is this clearer than in Laverton. It is a suburb with a rich history and a diverse, proud community, yet for decades it has been overlooked when investment and attention have been shared out.
Emma is determined to change that. Her priorities are clear: improve the amenity of Laverton for every resident, secure the services and infrastructure a growing community needs, protect and expand open space, and ensure everyone has fair and equal access to opportunity.
She brings the skills of an experienced advocate, the practical sense of a small business owner and the heart of a long-time volunteer. Most of all, she brings a genuine love for the west and the people who call it home.
Laverton deserves its fair share. Emma Mendelsohn will fight for it, without compromise.
